Steve Perhla
40 Faces of the J
I first joined the Levine JCC in 2010 after moving to Charlotte. A friend, Greg Abrams, referred me because I was looking for a place where I could join basketball and softball leagues while also having access to a gym to lift weights. The J checked every box for me, and I had no idea at the time just how important it would become in my life.
For the past 16 years, the JCC has been a huge part of my routine and my community. I’ve played pickup basketball there year-round and participated in every basketball and softball league during that time. Today, I’m the longest-tenured player in the basketball league and one of the longest-tenured players in the softball league. Over the years, I’ve also worked alongside several incredible sports leaders and commissioners — including Dan Vizzini, Josh Stein, Titus Ivory, David Berger, and Zack Wise — helping run the leagues and recruit new players. In late 2024, I became the commissioner of the softball league, which has been especially meaningful for me.
The J has given me far more than a place to play sports. It’s provided me with a large network of friends and a real sense of community. Through basketball, softball, and fitness, I’ve made hundreds of connections, many of whom are now some of my closest friends. It’s also helped me stay committed to my physical wellness throughout the years.
Some of my favorite memories at the J involve my brother, Sean. Every Sunday morning, we get the chance to take the softball field together and compete side by side. Those are memories I’ll always cherish. Another moment that meant so much to me was having longtime JCC Sports Director Dan Vizzini officiate my wedding to my wife, Mia. That made the J feel even more like family.
One thing I’m especially proud of is helping grow the softball league over the years. Back in 2013, the league had dropped to around 40 players. Since then, I’ve helped grow it to more than 110 players each season. Now, the league fills up within days and even requires a waiting list. It’s incredibly rewarding to see fathers and sons playing together, families bonding, and new friendships being formed through the league. My hope is to continue growing these sports programs and creating opportunities for even more people to find connection and community at the J.
To me, the Levine JCC is a place that truly embraces family and creates lifelong friendships. It’s been one of the most important communities in my life, and I’m grateful for everything it has given me over the years.
